Visitor Visa

Visitor Visa: The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Canada

A Visitor Visa—officially called a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV)—is issued by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). It allows foreign nationals to enter Canada temporarily for tourism, visiting family, or business-related activities.

Who Needs a Visitor Visa?

You may need a Visitor Visa if you:

Come from a country that is not visa-exempt.
Plan to visit Canada for tourism, family visits, business meetings, or short-term study (less than six months).
Need to transit through a Canadian airport on your way to another destination.

Types of Visitor Visas

Single-Entry Visa: Allows one-time entry into Canada. It becomes invalid once you leave, except for travel to the U.S. or St. Pierre and Miquelon.
Multiple-Entry Visa: Lets you enter Canada as many times as needed, typically valid for up to 10 years or until your passport expires.
Super Visa: Designed for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents. It allows extended stays of up to five years per visit. See more...
Transit Visa: Required for travelers passing through Canada who will be in the country for less than 48 hours en route to another destination.
Business Visitor Visa: For those entering Canada temporarily for business activities such as meetings, training, or conferences—without engaging in the Canadian job market. See more...

Limitations of a Visitor Visa

No Work Authorization: You are not permitted to work in Canada on a Visitor Visa.
Not a Pathway to Permanent Residency: It is strictly for temporary visits.
Limited Stay: Typically allows a stay of up to six months per visit.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a Visitor Visa to Canada, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Be in Good Health: Depending on your country of residence, you may need to complete a medical examination.
Have No Criminal Record: You must not have any criminal or immigration-related offenses. A police clearance certificate may be requested.
Demonstrate Strong Ties to Your Home Country: This can include employment, property, family connections, or financial responsibilities—proof that you will return after your visit.
Provide Proof of Sufficient Funds: You must show you can financially support yourself (and any accompanying family members) during your stay. The required amount depends on your planned duration and accommodation type.
Clearly State the Purpose of Your Visit: You must explain why you are visiting and confirm your intention to leave Canada at the end of your stay.
Invitation Letter (if applicable): If you are visiting relatives or friends, an official letter of invitation from your host in Canada may be needed.
No Intent to Work or Study: You are not permitted to work or study in Canada unless you have been specifically authorized to do so.

Required Documents

To apply for a Visitor Visa to Canada, you’ll need to prepare the following documents:

Valid Passport: Must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in Canada.
Completed Application Forms: Include Form IMM 5257 (Visitor Visa Application) and Form IMM 5645 (Family Information), both signed and complete.
Proof of Financial Support: Bank statements, pay stubs, or other documents showing you can cover travel and living expenses during your stay.
Letter of Explanation: A written statement explaining the purpose of your visit and your travel plans in Canada.
Passport-Size Photos: Recent photos that meet Canadian visa photo specifications.
Travel Itinerary (if available): Include flight bookings and accommodation details.
Proof of Ties to Your Home Country: Documents such as employment letters, property ownership, or family obligations that demonstrate your intent to return home.
Invitation Letter (if applicable): A formal letter from your host in Canada, including their personal details and your relationship to them.
Medical Exam / Police Certificate (if required): Based on your country of residence or the length of your intended stay, you may need to provide these documents.
Visa Application Fee Receipt: Proof of payment for the visa processing fee.

Benefits and Considerations

Obtaining a Visitor Visa to Canada comes with many advantages—but it’s important to be aware of key responsibilities as well.

Benefits of a Visitor Visa

Cultural Exploration: Discover Canada’s rich history, natural beauty, and diverse culture.
Family Visits: Reconnect with relatives and spend quality time with loved ones.
Business Engagement: Participate in trade shows, conferences, or business meetings.
Flexible Travel: Multiple-entry visas make it easier to visit Canada frequently without reapplying.

Important Considerations

Respect Your Visa Terms: Overstaying can result in removal orders or bans from re-entry.
Entry Is Not Guaranteed: Final admission decisions are made by Canada Border Services officers at the port of entry.

Additional Services We Offer

Application Assistance

Personalized guidance for completing visa forms and gathering required documents.
Support with submitting applications through the official online portal.

Specialized Visa Services

Assistance with Super Visa applications for extended family visits.
Help with reapplications, renewals, and visa extensions.

Pre- & Post-Arrival Support

Entry preparation tips and guidance on Canadian immigration regulations.
Support with extending your stay or addressing visa-related concerns after arrival.